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This is a common warning in certain circles that sharing custody a dog after a breakup is ill-advised. Experts frequently claim such situations prevent ex-partners from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and are a nuisance for everyone involved. Apparently, as a development fit for a direct-to-platform film, it also makes the canine in question to become depressed.

While respecting the mental health of our pets – countless people speak of their remarkable empathy. To witness a masterclass in pet despair, simply recall a past film. It seems certain that a dog such as Merv, a scruffy terrier type played by Gus the Dog, would find it difficult coping with split households. Whether this premise a feature-length romcom on this conflict works effectively is a questionable prospect.

A Familiar Formula

Honestly, Merv, the work of Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and helmed by Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be deeper than a light film. This is a holiday release from a streaming platform giant – the depth remains surface-level. Its storyline proves to be uncomplicated: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their post-breakup gloom is surpassed by their dog's, take a therapeutic trip to a dog-friendly resort. At this location, predictably, they will surely rediscover the idea that they belong with each other. The supporting cast – featuring a group of comedic actors – fulfill roles eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Its aesthetic carries the feel of a streaming service original, with a Christmas setting that is clearly manufactured – as seen in flurries clinging to lush pines as North Carolina doubles as the Northeast.

The Canine Charisma

If these predictable parts merge into a pleasant experience hinges on the execution and the viewer's appetite for cinematic comfort food. For the comfort factor, Merv hones in on a demographic – the kind who seek out for cute animal clips. Audiences receive a plethora of canine-centric sequences. The primary selling point is the dog, and though it results in some awkward editing between the pet's "lines" and human reaction, the movie succeeds in showing canine party antics, canine sorrow, and, ultimately, pure puppy happiness.

The Two-Legged Cast

Such effectiveness is not earned for the interpersonal drama. Its style vacillates between relationship drama, zany antics, standard rom-com beats, and physical comedy, not quite landing a consistent feel. No blame falls on Cox's performance, who is willing to embrace the absurd and awkward inherent in the bizarre setting. He brings a likable self-deprecation that supplies the bulk of the chemistry for this on-the-rocks couple. Zooey Deschanel, true to her usual style, brings a certain millennial quirkiness that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal comes across as a touch too detached, notably when alongside Cox's vulnerable performance. (On another note, the canine performer succeeds in flopping and whining – he may not be Messi from that acclaimed drama, he remains a scene-stealer.)

The story strives to provide depth to the couple's history for scenes without their pet – a regrettable choice, considering the title character is by far the best part of this cute-aiming movie. As one might predict, it meets the bare minimum. The cause for the split could have been more grounded and mature with more screen time and less blunt explanation. In the end, Merv is slight and sweet, meeting every expected note. Crafting a story on this shared-custody premise has potential – though I wouldn't call it a great one either.

• Merv becomes available on Prime Video this December.